Drumlins

/ˈdrʌmlɪnz/ noun

Definition

Elongated, rounded hills created by glaciers that look like giant upside-down spoons scattered across a landscape.

Etymology

From Irish 'druim' (ridge) + English diminutive '-lin,' combined to describe these small drumlike formations. The term emerged in Irish geology in the 19th century to name the distinctive landscape features found especially in Ireland and Scotland.

Kelly Says

During the last Ice Age, glaciers pushed sediment into these oval bumps—Ireland's landscape is dotted with about 10,000 of them! They flow in parallel lines like invisible ripples, showing exactly which direction the ancient ice was moving.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.